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Motorcyclists have been wearing leather jackets ever since riders first discovered that cow hide was better at resisting damage than tweed. Things have come along way since then...

From the fairly basic all-black jackets riders worn by the Rockers in the 1960s (black to hide the oil spots as the bikes’ engines were generally far from oil-tight), we now have multi-coloured jackets in a huge variety of different shapes, styles and colours, covering everything from casual to full on touring. Garments are available that are specifically designed for summer :a[or winter]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/winter-motorcycle-jackets/' }, and there are even a few options that include the latest airbag protective technology.

## About motorcycle jackets {#h-about-motorcycle-jackets}

For many riders a leather jacket simply isn’t practical, which is where textile jackets come in. Textiles are not only generally lighter than leather, but they can also be waterproof and breathable, meaning they are better options for those looking to cover big miles in comfort. And again, like leather jackets, they come in a huge variety of styles, from adventure to sporty, in short and long lengths, and lots of different colours.

So which are the best options? We’ve rounded up a selection of motorcycle jackets to cover every category and answered all of the important FAQs at the bottom of this article to help you make the right decision.

## Best motorcycle jackets at a glance: {#h-best-motorcycle-jackets-at-a-glance}

:a[Textile]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/best-textile-motorcycle-jacket/' } - RST Pro Series Paragon 6 CE

:a[Leather]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/best-leather-motorcycling-jackets/' } - Richa Mugello 2

:a[Adventure]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/adventure-motorcycle-jackets/' } - RST Pro Series Adventure-X CE

:a[Touring]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/motorcycle-touring-jackets/' } - Oxford Mondial

:a[Sporty]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/sporty-textile-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Furygan Narval

:a[Casual]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/casual-textile-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Richa Lausanne

:a[Summer]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/summer-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Duchinni Strike

:a[Winter]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/winter-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Spidi Alpen Trophy

:a[Waterproof]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/waterproof-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Weise Outlast

:a[Laminated]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/laminated-textile-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Richa Infinity 2

:a[Heated]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/best-heated-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Keis V501RP

:a[Mesh]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/mesh-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Oxford Dakar Dry2Dry Air 1.0

:a[Womens]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/womens-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Held Ladies Hashiro 2 Sport

:a[Waxed]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/waxed-cotton-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Oxford Holwell 1.0

:a[Kids]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/best-children-motorcycle-jackets/' } - Duchinni Kids Jago

## More motorcycle jackets to consider {#h-more-motorcycle-jackets-to-consider}

## FAQs: The important questions {#h-faqs-the-important-questions}

There has been a recent change in certification when it comes to motorcycle clothing with a CE A, AA and AAA protective rating introduced. By law, all newly produced motorcycle clothing should have this stated on their label. The A ratings mean:

AAA (triple A) is the highest grade, intended for the highest level of risk. Key areas (e.g. shoulder, elbow, hip) must be covered by an approved impact protector and resist abrasion for at least four seconds at 70mph.

AA (double A) is the next level and covers the wide range of risks that riders are likely to encounter. The abrasion test lasts for two seconds at roughly 45mph.

To pass the single A grade, garments are only required to resist abrasion for one second at 30mph, so they can be less bulky and more comfortable to wear on a daily basis.

Generally, AAA is for sporting equipment such as leather race jackets and jeans or one-piece suits where AA is touring textiles and A urban equipment such as scooter or lightweight jackets. Many older jackets don’t have this rating and instead are simply ‘CE-approved’ which generally means that actually the jacket itself isn’t CE-approved, only the armour is. The confusion here is that technically a motorcycle jacket is a piece of Personal Protective Equipment but if it is sold as ‘non-protective’ then only the armour needs to be CE-approved, which is how most jackets are marketed. A few carry full CE-approval, but not that many.

It is important to check the armour is CE-approved but generally it is only CE-approved on the shoulders and elbows with a soft back protector. Ideally, buy a separate back protector that is CE-approved and always wear it. A back protector can save you from serious, and life-changing, injury.

**Can it be zipped to a set of trousers?**

A lot of jackets have a zip to allow them to be connected to a set of trousers (from the same manufacturer) to create a single garment. This is more protective as it stops the jacket riding up in an accident. Trackday companies insist on ‘zip-together’ leathers being worn on track.

Most textile jackets will have a removable lining but not all leather ones will. If the lining isn’t removable, the jacket can become sweaty and a bit smelly, so buying one with a removable lining is generally a good idea (most textile jackets can be machine washed or hand washed, leather ones can’t). A lot of leather jackets have a quilted lining, which can be removed.

The more vents, the cooler you will be! Some leather jackets are perforated, which is fine if the sun it out but less good when it rains, where textiles generally have zip-covered vents. If you are planning on touring hot areas, the more vents the merrier, but be aware that any zip is a potential weak point when it comes to water ingress so a waterproof zip is ideal.

A lot of jackets are ‘water-resistant’ or ‘shower-proof’ which means they will resist a bit of rain but not a full-on deluge. A waterproof jacket should ensure you stay dry.

Consider what you are planning on wearing underneath the jacket. If you are going for a jacket to use in winter you may need a bit of extra wiggle room under for jumpers to help ward off the cold. If you are riding in summer then you can afford to have a snugger fit. Some jackets are measured in sizes (XS to XXXL), others in EU measurements or UK sizes so check each firm’s size chart first what size will suit you.

Some sporty leather jackets have an aerodynamic hump on their rear. It is a pointless fashion accessory on a leather jacket used on the road, so think if you want this style or not.

### Be the first to know what's coming in the latest issue of MCN, plus the latest road tests, recommendations, and competitions. Sign up to the :a[MCN newsletter]{href='https://www.motorcyclenews.com/newsletter/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}. {#h-be-the-first-to-know-what-s-coming-in-the-latest-issue-of-mcn-plus-the-latest-road-tests-recommendations-and-competitions-sign-up-to-the-mcn-newsletter}

As far as the law is concerned, the only item of protective kit you are required to wear on a motorcycle is a helmet. There's a good reason for this, as repeated studies have shown that wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the chance of serious injury (or worse) in the event of an accident.

It's common sense to look after your noggin anyway, but deciding which is the best motorcycle helmet for you can be a difficult decision, especially with such a vast choice available.

There are so many options out there that it can feel overwhelming when you first start looking. :a[Flip-front helmets]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/helmets/best-flip-front-helmet/' } give the best of both worlds between an open face and full face lid.

Off-road style :a[peaked or adventure helmets]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/helmets/best-adventure-bike-helmets/' } suit the more adventurous of us, and sports helmets are perfect for sportsbikes and trackdays.

There are also a growing number of :a[cheap motorbike helmets]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/helmets/best-budget-crash-helmets/' } hitting the market each year.

### The best motorcycle helmets at a glance: {#h-the-best-motorcycle-helmets-at-a-glance}

Here are some of the best helmets from each category that should help you narrow your search or at least point you in the right direction.

## How to choose the right helmet for you {#h-how-to-choose-the-right-helmet-for-you}

The basic rule of thumb is to buy the best motorcycle helmet you can afford. However, that still leaves a lot to consider. Let's start by looking at the fundamentals and work our way through to options.

A helmet's primary function is to protect your head from an impact with a solid object. It does this with two main elements – a hard outer shell that is designed to absorb the impact across its entire surface and a deformable inner layer that acts as a cushion or crumple zone. Fibreglass, polycarbonate or carbon fibre are typical materials for the outer construction, whilst expanded polystyrene (EPS) is widely used for the inner.

Many manufacturers incorporate a multi-directional impact system (MIPS) which offers additional protection by allowing the inner to move independently, thus reducing rotational injuries. Some helmets also have an emergency quick-release system (EQRS), which gives emergency services the opportunity to withdraw the cheek pads whilst the helmet is still being worn. This reduces pressure on the head, loosening the fit and making removal easier and safer.

Whatever helmet you choose, it's worth investing in :a[some earplugs]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/accessories/comfort/best-motorcycling-earplugs/' }. The wind noise experienced at motorway speed on any bike and wearing any helmet is enough to damage your hearing, so make sure you protect it!

## Watch this video on how to get a helmet that fits correctly:

## How are helmets tested? {#h-how-are-helmets-tested}

All helmets sold in the UK must comply with the current :a[European standard of ECE 22.05]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/clothing/clothing/ce-ratings-explained/#helmets' }. This involves a whole range of tests to ensure that any given helmet will perform as it should. You'll find a tag somewhere on the helmet to confirm this, usually on the chin strap. As of July 2023, all new helmets manufactured will have to be tested to the newer ECE 22.06 standard, although it will remain legal to wear those tested under the current certification.

In 2007, the UK government set up its own testing scheme, the :a[Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme ]{href='https://sharp.dft.gov.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}. This awards helmets a star rating out of 5 and can give a further indication as to the best motorcycle helmet for you.

## Which type of helmet do I need? {#h-which-type-of-helmet-do-i-need}

There are three main types of helmets – open face, full face and modular. Deciding which will meet your needs is the first step in finding the best motorcycle helmet for you.

An open face is the most basic type, offering protection to the top, back and sides of the head. These are more suited to riders who prefer a less restricted view, want maximum ventilation or feel claustrophobic with their face covered. They're popular with those who ride urban, classic, trials or cruiser-type bikes. Many have provision for a clip-on visor and peak, or you could choose to wear goggles. A variation on the theme is the 'jet' style, which incorporates a visor much like a fighter pilot's helmet.

So-called because it wraps around the whole head leaving just an aperture for your eyes, a full face helmet provides much more protection, both from an impact and the elements. There are many different sub-types, from the more rounded road/race style to peaked adventure and off road helmets.

Both adventure and off-road helmet types can be identified by their extended chinbars, designed to give greater airflow for coping with the exertions of riding on the dirt. Off road helmets don't have a visor and are intended to be worn with goggles.

Modular, or flip front, helmets offer the best of both worlds. The front part of the helmet is designed to rotate upwards, converting it from full to open face - although it should be noted that not all are approved to be worn open whilst riding, so check before you buy. Modular helmets provide a level of convenience for people who ride a lot, such as for work or touring. Although the most versatile, modular helmets are generally the heaviest of the bunch due to the extra mechanism required.

## How do I choose the right size? {#h-how-do-i-choose-the-right-size}

A correctly fitting helmet is paramount, both in terms of safety and comfort. Too loose could cause it to move around in use, and it won't be able to protect as it should, maybe even coming off in an accident. Too tight, and it will quickly become uncomfortable, affecting concentration and giving you a headache – a few miles in a helmet that's too small can be akin to a medieval torture device. The best motorcycle helmet should be just snug, moving with your head without causing discomfort.

Measuring your head is a good place to start in finding your size (above the ears and around the forehead), but the only way to be sure is to go to a shop or show and try some on. Manufacturers offer a range of shell sizes to suit different size heads, as well as liners and cheek pads to achieve a full custom fit. The best motorcycle helmet is the one you feel most comfortable wearing.

## What's the best type of strap? {#h-what-s-the-best-type-of-strap}

Keeping a helmet in place is crucial to its effectiveness, and there are three main types of fastening systems - double D-ring, ratchet clasp or a car seatbelt style clip and catch. All meet the required standard, so ultimately it's down to personal choice.

A double D-ring is the traditional method and is adjusted each time it's fastened by simply tugging it snug. With no moving parts, it's also the simplest and remains the standard at the top level of bike sport. A ratchet clasp is similar in that you tighten it to suit every time, but some will find feeding the strap through the clasp less fiddly to get the hang of. The seat belt type has to be adjusted first, altering the length of the strap to suit, so may involve some trial and error. In operation, it's a simple case of clipping the buckle into the catch and pressing a button to release.

A strap is correctly tightened when you can slip two fingers between it and your jaw. Any more than that could restrict breathing or blood flow, any less and your helmet may not stay on when it needs to.

## Which helmets are rated by MCN? {#h-which-helmets-are-rated-by-mcn}

MCN's expert road testers have a wealth of experience in testing every aspect of motorcycle kits and have put a huge variety of helmets through their paces. Here's our pick from each category - you can find more options plus in-depth reviews by clicking on the relevant links.

**Be the first to know what's coming in the latest issue of MCN, plus the latest road tests, recommendations, and competitions. Sign up to the** :a[**MCN newsletter**]{href='https://www.motorcyclenews.com/newsletter/' }**.**

Motorcycle intercoms tend to divide opinion: while some motorcyclists prefer the silence and solitude of riding – in fact, that's the draw for many – some swing the other way and like to be :a[connected to their smartphones]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/travel/uk/best-motorcycle-phone-holders/' } to make and take calls and listen to music.

Even if you find all that distracting, you can use them to hear :a[sat-nav directions]{href='https://products.motorcyclenews.com/travel/uk/best-motorcycle-satnavs/' } or speak with their pillion or other riders in the group.

Generally comprising a pair of speakers, a microphone, a brain and a battery, these effectively replicate a wireless headset for phones and operate on Bluetooth, so you can also control your phone directly from the intercom. Most also allow for voice control to make operation safer while on the go, and they can also trigger your device's voice control as well.

## The best motorcycle intercoms at a glance:

Motorcycle intercoms can either be universal or integrated fit; they are either designed to fit any helmet and generally sit a control unit outside the shell, or they can be integrated, designed specifically for one or two helmets and fit inside the lid in custom-made apertures. Which you choose is down to you and how often you change your helmet or how many you use.

We've tried numerous intercoms, and these are what we reckon are the top ones.

## Best motorcycle intercoms: {#h-best-motorcycle-intercoms}

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